3D print your next headphones

Here's how one DIYer created a fully functional set of headphones using no traditional manufactured parts - just a 3D printer and a few raw materials.

In an interesting technology demonstration, someone has created a set of headphones using no manufactured parts - just a 3D printer and a few raw materials. While the result isn't going to cause the likes of a Sennheiser or AKG Acoustics to lose any sleep anytime soon, it does hint at the amazing potential that affordable 3D printing promises to bring to end consumers.

In this case, the "Low Fi Hi Tech" headphones were created using only wire, tape, solder, magnets and of course 3D printed parts. The headphone drivers themselves were 3D printed - as thin printed parts with spiral slots in which copper wire thread was inserted - as was the headphone driver casing and headband. The latter was made using a flexible spring structured material.

This is interesting. My understanding is that all 3D printing requires a 3D print of a design, which is half the work anyway. And on many occasions the design is far more work than the physical rendition.